FC Dallas sign former Portland Timber Norberto Paparatto after trade

FC Dallas have bolstered their defensive corps by bringing back an MLS Cup champion to the league.

FC Dallas announced on Tuesday that they have signed center back Norberto Paparatto after trading Targeted Allocation Money to the Portland Timbers for his Right of First Refusal.

Paparatto, a 32-year-old Argentine, previously spent two seasons with the Timbers. He appeared in 19 regular-season games and three playoff matches for the club during that time while also helping Portland capture the 2015 MLS Cup.

The Timbers declined Paparatto's option this past winter, and he went on to sign with Atletico de Rafaela in his native land. He made five appearances for the Argentine side.

With FC Dallas, the veteran defender is joining the club that currently boasts the best record in MLS this season. FCD could use some defensive help, however, as they have given up 31 goals thus far.